In the last several years, the variety of young people’s activities has increased greatly. With the ability to travel and the networking that exists between many C.Y C.’s, the young people enjoy a full schedule of gatherings, sports challenges and study days. These regular events have helped to build a spiritually solid framework in which the young people can circulate and grow. But with this positive growth, an awkward issue has started to touch the Christadelphian community.
Practice consideration
This issue for the young people does not relate to a lack of love and commitment to God’s word or an insensitivity to the needs of their individual ecclesias. The quality of the young people, their energy to serve God and their desire to witness to the gospel of Christ is an encouragement and example for us all. Yet with that raw energy comes a character that is sometimes just a little impulsive and inconsiderate. These attributes manifest themselves in different ways ranging from unannounced visits to long stay-overs.
Unscheduled visits presume upon the generosity of brothers and sisters in other areas of the ecclesial family. These characteristics are by-products of youth that need to be transformed through spiritual education.
Right use of liberty
The apostle Paul exhorted the ecclesias in Galatia: “Only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh.” Some of the brethren, who were in their spiritual infancy, not unlike our young people, had at times acted in an unthoughtful and inconsiderate manner. It was Paul’s aim to re-educate them about the true meaning of liberty in Christ.
He instructed them that the principle of serving one another was to replace their previous priorities. So emphatic was this idea that Paul, through inspiration, termed their new role as “servants” to one another (RSV). Many had formerly been servants under bondage to the law or pagan religions (Gal. 4:810); ironically their new freedom in Christ placed them once more into a role of servitude, but to a different master (cf. Rom. 6:16-18). Paul carries these thoughts forward as he presents two lists: one of the works of the flesh, the other the fruit of the spirit.
Seeing the big picture
At times in our Bible study, we need to step back and view the big picture. Galatians 5 is such a case. There is little value in dissecting each word if we fail to see the common thread running through these sets of attributes.
The works of the flesh, when viewed as a group, display characteristics that are selfish and self-serving. The fruit of the spirit, however are attributes that are selfless. They reflect a desire to serve others.
We then ask the question, What does true liberty in Christ mean? The answer is — true liberty in Christ means that we are free to serve others rather than ourselves.
We are encouraged to be responsive to the needs of others ahead of our own. This attitude of thoughtfulness guards against taking for granted the generosity and love of brothers and sisters whom we may visit. We have a wonderful freedom — we can travel great distances and spend time with may different brothers and sisters. This is a priceless blessing that should never be taken for granted. It is a family-like setting that is not found outside the ecclesia of Christ.
My own experience
Early in my exposure to the Truth I was invited to travel to Detroit, MI with a group of young brothers. We planned to visit the Livonia ecclesia for the weekend. Before agreeing, I asked my parents, who are not in the Truth if I could go. When I explained where I was going and with whom I was planning to stay, they were concerned and unbelieving. They were overwhelmed with the idea that someone who hardly knew me would offer me food and accommodation for a weekend. They finally agreed and the following weekend we traveled to Detroit.
When we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and love. To myself, an outsider, I felt a family-like bond to this brother and sister whom I had only met once before.
That memory has left a lasting impression. It is a constant reminder to me that we have a precious fellowship unlike any that exists around us. Now that memory prompts me to express my concerns about an attitude I perceive in some of our young people.
Presuming on hospitality
Unfortunately, some have unintentionally come to regard the hospitality of other brothers and sisters (and “uncles” and “aunts”) as a given. They presume if they have a need, it will be looked after.
In most cases their thinking is justified. But if they regularly take this for granted, the spirit of love involved will be dampened. This pattern has the potential, in the case of the host or hostess, of creating hard feelings. They may feel used. A particularly difficult experience may even deter them from similar offers in the future.
Practical suggestions
With school holidays and the summer season approaching here are some suggestions to help young people practice thoughtfulness:
- Make plans well in advance.
Many families make their preparations several months in advance so be considerate of their schedules. Contact them early if you wish to visit. Caution: once arrangements have been made, do not change them overnight (except for any unforeseen problems). Harness that raw energy and be considerate.
- List what you plan to do while there and discuss it with your host or hostess. List potential sights you would like to see or places you would like to go.
Ask if they have any suggestions. Confirm that your plans are acceptable and be flexible if changes need to be made. Remember you are the guest.
- Help while you are there.
Paul’s advice to the Thessalonians was, “If any would not work, neither should he eat” (II Thess. 3;10). We should remember that we are visiting and not vacationing. The chores we have at home should be a guide to the various ways that we can help while staying with others.
- Bring money.
Be thoughtful. Offer to purchase some groceries or to fill the car’s tank with gasoline. Acts like these show that you are mature and understand that food and travel are not free.
- Be thankful.
Thank your host properly when leaving. Offer a small gift as a token of your gratitude. This will complete your visit and make your stay a fond memory for both you and your host. Once back at home, send a note of thanks to further express your gratitude.
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One